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Tyndall recognizes POW/MIA with run, luncheon

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Timothy R. Capling
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Tyndall Air Force Base Airmen carried on a 20-year tradition Thursday and Friday-honoring prisoners of war and those missing in action with a 24-hour vigil run, retreat ceremony and luncheon.

These activities were all part of the 325th Fighter Wing's recognition of National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

During the vigil run, volunteers ranging from multiple individuals to entire squadrons, ran in 15 minute increments carrying a baton passed ceaselessly for 24 hours.

The idea for the run was created in 1989 by Capt. Dan Williams and retired Lt. Col. Donald Bazzel, formerly of 81st Range Control Squadron, said Staff Sgt. Angela Taylor, 81st RCS weapons director.

"Their vision was to have a 24-hour vigil run to keep the memory of all prisoners of war and those missing in action instilled in our hearts," said Sergeant Taylor. "He and four others ran on the flight line non-stop for 24 hours. As the five of them took turns running and motivating one another, others encouraged and cheered them on. This tradition has since migrated to the base flag park."

Lt. Col. Joe Gilley, 81st RCS commander, said he is amazed how the tradition has evolved.

"It makes me proud to think that what started out as a modest, humble group of Airmen in the 81st RCS just wanting to express their feelings has blossomed into a base-wide appreciation for all servicemembers," said the colonel.

Tyndall also recognized the day with a luncheon featuring guest speaker, retired Capt. Bill Robinson, the longest-held enlisted prisoner of war in American history.

Mr. Robinson, serving as a flight engineer aboard a HH43B Huskie helicopter on a rescue mission in North Vietnam was shot down Sept. 20, 1965. He spent seven and a half years as a POW with a large group of servicemembers, including Senator John McCain and retired Col. George "Bud" Day at the Hoa Lo Prison, infamously known as the Hanoi Hilton.

"I think it is very befitting that we continue to recognize the warriors that have been captured, missing and have sometimes provided the ultimate sacrifice for their contributions to defending our nation's freedom," said Colonel Gilley. "We should not and will never forget those heroes from the past and those still missing or in captivity for their true measure of patriotism and courage."